Identification of fungal isolates by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry in veterinary practice: validation of a web application

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has emerged as a reliable method to identify fungal isolates. The success of this approach relies on the availability of exhaustive databases, but the latter were built with a focus on human pathogens. We assessed a large in-house database of reference spectra and a dedicated web application for their suitability for use in veterinary laboratories. A panel of 290 mold and yeast isolates representing 69 different fungal species was isolated from various animals (including pets, cattle, and zoo animals) and identified using both MALDI-TOF MS and conventional techniques. The performance of the 2 methods was compared, and identifications were confirmed by DNA sequencing. MALDI-TOF MS allowed distinction between some closely related species and achieved 89% correct identification at the species level. In comparison, only 60% of the isolates were correctly identified with conventional approaches. Using this online application, MALDI-TOF MS thus appears to be a relevant alternative for the identification of fungal isolates encountered by animal health professionals.